Combination led lamps

ABSTRACT

Various embodiments of a combination lamp are provided, which combine a plurality of different lamp functions in a unitary configuration, and can reduce the total amount of space taken up for at least substantially the same amount of illumination produced. The combination lamps can be configured for use on vehicles, light fixtures, free standing lamps, decorative articles, etc. In some embodiments, each lamp component may have a power connection element independent from the other lamp components.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.63/031,421, filed May 28, 2020, which is incorporated by referenceherein in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

Multiple lamps are often used to illuminate a common area, either incombination or in an alternating fashion. For example, a room can havelight fixture such as fluorescent lighting which illuminates the entireroom when on, and provides no light when it is off. In addition, theroom can have atmosphere lighting which provides a dim illumination.Similarly, the rear of a vehicle can have back-up lamps, which light upwhen the vehicle is being moved in reverse (or shifted intoreverse/back-up), as well as stop/tail/turn lamps, which light up whenthe driver brakes, signals to turn, or turns on the headlights. Theselamps are typically adjacent to each other, and most vehicles have twoof each lamp, one on either side of the rear of the vehicle, above therear bumper. In certain vehicles, such as trucks, it is common to havemore than two of the back-up lamp and/or the stop/tail/turn lamp toprovide brighter illumination.

SUMMARY

Various embodiments of a combination lamp are provided, which combine aplurality different lamp functions in a unitary configuration, and cansimplify installation and reduce the total amount of space taken up forat least substantially the same amount of illumination produced. Thecombination lamps can be configured for use on vehicles, light fixtures,free standing lamps, decorative articles, etc. In some embodiments, eachlamp component may have a power connection element independent from theother lamp components.

In some embodiments, a combination lamp is provided that includes astop/turn/tail lamp surrounded by a flange for installation onto avehicle, wherein the stop/tail/turn lamp and the flange each have aseparate set of light sources, preferably comprising one or morelight-emitting diodes (LEDs). At least a first portion of the LEDs ofthe flange are activated when the vehicle backs up, thus performing as aback-up lamp. In some embodiments, the stop/tail/turn lamp and theback-up lamp have separate power plugs connected to the vehicle in sucha way that the stop/tail/turn lamp turns on when the driver signals,brakes, or when the headlights are on, and the back-up lamp turns onwhen the vehicle is backing-up, and not vice-versa.

In some embodiments, at least a second portion of the LEDs of the flangemay have a dedicated warning lamp function. The warning lamp may beinitiated and energized by a separate set of wires connected to adedicated switch (on/off). When the warning lamp is in use and the userdecides to put the vehicle in back-up, brake (stop), or turn mode, abuilt-in circuit can automatically cut off the warning function, so thatthe intense illumination of the warning lamp does not negate thevisibility of the lamps used for the back-up, stop, and turn functions.

In some embodiments, in addition to or instead of the warning lamp, awork lamp function may be incorporated. For example, the LEDs of theflange used for the back-up function may be high output LEDs, and ahigher output used for the work lamp function can be initiated andenergized by a set of wires connected to a dedicated switch (on/off).

In some embodiments, the invention provides a combination LED lampassembly comprising a first lamp in an inner portion of the assembly,having one or more first LEDs and a first power interface; and a flangeat least partially surrounding the first lamp, the flange including asecond lamp having one or more second LEDs and a second power interface,and a third lamp having one or more third LEDs and a third powerinterface coupled to a switch, wherein the one or more third LEDs areamber LEDs configured to provide an amber warning lamp function when theswitch coupled to the third power interface is turned on.

In some embodiments, the first lamp is a stop/turn/tail lamp and thesecond lamp is a back-up lamp.

In some embodiments, the second lamp is further configured to provide awhite warning lamp function when the switch coupled to the third powerinterface is turned on.

In some embodiments, the third lamp is further configured to provide anamber turn light.

In some embodiments, the assembly is configured to be mounted on avehicle.

In some embodiments, the flange includes a plurality of holes and theassembly is configured to be mounted on the vehicle via the holes.

In some embodiments, the first, second, and third lamps are connected toa common power source.

In some embodiments, the assembly further comprises a connector wirecoupled to the switch, the connector wire configured to select a flashpattern from a plurality of flash patterns when the switch is turned on.

In some embodiments, the plurality of flash patterns comprise dual colorflash patterns and single color flash patterns.

In some embodiments, when a single color flash pattern is selected, theconnector wire is further configured to toggle to an alternate color.

In some embodiments, the invention provides a combination LED lampassembly comprising a first lamp in an inner portion of the assembly,having one or more first LEDs and a first power interface; and a flangeat least partially surrounding the first lamp, the flange including asecond lamp having one or more second LEDs and a second power interfacecoupled to a switch, wherein the first lamp is a stop/turn/tail lamp andthe second lamp is a back-up lamp and a work lamp, wherein the one ormore second LEDs are high output LEDs configured to provide the worklamp function when the switch coupled to the second power interface isturned on.

In some embodiments, the second lamp is configured to provide a lightoutput of about 310 lm when operated as a back-up lamp and about 1,000lm when operated as a work lamp.

In some embodiments, the assembly is configured to be mounted on avehicle.

In some embodiments, the flange includes a plurality of holes and theassembly is configured to be mounted on the vehicle via the holes.

In some embodiments, the first and second lamps are connected to acommon power source.

Additional features and advantages of embodiments of the presentinvention are described further below. This summary section is meantmerely to illustrate certain features of embodiments of the invention,and is not meant to limit the scope of the invention in any way. Thefailure to discuss a specific feature or embodiment of the invention, orthe inclusion of one or more features in this summary section, shouldnot be construed to limit the invention as claimed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description ofcertain embodiments of the application, will be better understood whenread in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purposes ofillustrating the systems and methods of the present application, thereare shown in the drawings preferred embodiments. It should beunderstood, however, that the application is not limited to the precisearrangements and instrumentalities shown. In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an illustrative round combinationlamp, according to various embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a top plan view of the combination lamp of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a side elevational view of the combination lamp of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a side elevational view of the combination lamp of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of an illustrative oval combinationlamp, according to various embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a top plan view of the combination lamp of FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is a side elevational view of the combination lamp of FIG. 5;

FIG. 8 is a side elevational view of the combination lamp of FIG. 5;

FIG. 9 is a front view of four illustrative round combination lampsaccording to various embodiments of the present invention installed onthe rear of a vehicle;

FIG. 10 is a close up view of the two combination lamps on the left sideof FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is an exploded view of an illustrative round combination lampincorporating a warning lamp in the flange, according to variousembodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 12 is a top plan view of an illustrative oval combination lampincorporating a warning lamp in the flange, according to variousembodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 13 is a top plan view of an illustrative round combination lamp,according to various embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 14 is a side elevational view of the combination lamp of FIG. 13;

FIG. 15 is an exploded view of the combination lamp of FIG. 13;

FIG. 16 is an electrical diagram of the combination lamp of FIG. 13;

FIG. 17 is a top plan view of an illustrative round combination lampincorporating a work lamp in the flange, according to variousembodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 18 is a side elevational view of the combination lamp of FIG. 17;

FIG. 19 is an exploded view of the combination lamp of FIG. 17;

FIG. 20 is an electrical diagram of the combination lamp of FIG. 17;

FIG. 21 is a front perspective view of an illustrative round combinationlamp incorporating a warning lamp in the flange, according to variousembodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 22 is a top plan view of the combination lamp of FIG. 21;

FIG. 23 is a bottom plan view of the combination lamp of FIG. 21;

FIG. 24 is a side elevational view of the combination lamp of FIG. 21;

FIG. 25 is an exploded view of the combination lamp of FIG. 21;

FIG. 26 is an electrical diagram of the combination lamp of FIG. 21;

FIGS. 27-30 show the combination lamp of FIG. 21 in differentoperational modes;

FIG. 31 shows a schematic of the combination lamp of FIG. 17 installedon the rear of a vehicle;

FIG. 32 shows a schematic of the combination lamp of FIG. 21 installedon the rear of a vehicle;

FIG. 33 shows a schematic of the electrical diagram of FIG. 26, withfunctional sections labeled;

FIG. 34 shows the view of FIG. 24 with 3-Wire Stop/Turn/Tail wiring;

FIG. 35 shows the view of FIG. 24 with 4-Wire Stop/Turn/Tail wiring;

FIG. 36 shows examples of different flash patterns for the warning lampcomponent of the combination lamp of FIG. 21;

FIG. 37 shows illustrative warning wiring instructions for simultaneousflash;

FIG. 38 shows illustrative warning wiring instructions for alternateflash; and

FIG. 39 shows illustrative warning wiring instructions for an optionalwarning Mode 2.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Certain illustrative embodiments of the present invention will now bedescribed with reference to the drawings. In general, such embodimentsrelate to a combination lamp comprising at least two different sets oflight sources, wherein each set of light sources can be activatedindependently from the other sets of light sources.

Referring to FIGS. 1-8, certain embodiments of a combination lamp 10, 30can comprise a first lamp 100, 300 and a second lamp 200, 400 in a fixedrelationship with each other. See, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 8,052,313, whichis incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. Whereas combinationlamp 10 shown in FIGS. 1-4 comprises a generally round shape andcombination lamp 30 shown in FIGS. 5-8 comprises a generally oval shape,it is to be understood that a combination lamp constructed in accordancewith the invention can take on any shape as a matter specific to anapplication or a matter of design choice.

As shown, first lamp 100, 300 can have a plurality of LEDs 101, 301mounted on a first support 102, 302, preferably covered by a first lens103, 303. Second lamp 200, 400 can comprise a plurality of LEDs 201, 401mounted on a second support 202, 402, preferably covered by a secondlens 203, 403. First lamp 100, 300 and second lamp 200, 400 can beconstructed and arranged to be selectively removable from or permanentlyfixed to each other, as a matter specific to an application or a matterof design choice. Preferably, first support 102, 302 connects to secondsupport 202, 402 to secure the first lamp 100, 300 and second lamp 200,400 together. Additionally, second support 202, 402 preferably includesa mounting element 210, 410 for mounting second lamp 200, 400 andpreferably combination lamp 10, 30 onto a surface, such as on a vehicle.

Referring to FIGS. 1-4, in accordance with certain uses of embodimentsof the invention, such as outdoor use, especially on vehicles, it may bepreferable for first support 102 to be permanently fixed to secondsupport 202, to provide security. In accordance with various embodimentsof the invention, second lamp 200 can be directly mounted on a surface,such as a vehicle body, and first lamp 100 can be connected to secondlamp 200, which can maintain first lamp 100 in place. Certainillustrative embodiments include a second lamp 200 that comprises aflange for mounting on the rear of a vehicle. Second lamp 200 can thusbe secured to the vehicle, and first lamp 100 can be connected to secondlamp 200 by way of non-limiting example, by being inserted into areceiving aperture in second lamp 200. In accordance with certainillustrative embodiments of the invention, first lamp 100 can beinserted into the receiving aperture of second lamp 200 until it snapsinto place, after which first lamp 100 cannot be removed.

Alternatively, referring to FIG. 2 by way of non-limiting example, itmay be desirable for first lamp 100 to be separable from second lamp200. Such removability can facilitate quick and easy replacement oflamps 100 or parts thereof. For example, one can remove first lamp 100from second lamp 200, replace the necessary LEDs, fix the circuitry,replace the lens, etc., whatever service is desired, then put first lamp100 back in place. Alternatively, a replacement lamp can be put in placewhile first lamp 100 is serviced. Whereas first lamp 100 has beendescribed as being inserted into and removed from second lamp 200, it isto be understood that second lamp 200 can be inserted into or removedfrom first lamp 100, without deviating from the scope of the invention.

The use of LEDs has been increasing recently, which may be partiallybecause they can have an operating life of up to 100,000 hours beforedegradation commences. Therefore, an LED typically has greater operatinglife than a standard high-intensity incandescent bulb, which has arelatively short life span and is susceptible to damage. Furthermore,LEDs are commonly smaller in size than light bulbs, and provide moreflexibility in positioning. Therefore, it can be preferable forcombination lamp 10 to comprise LEDs in both lamps 100, 200. When usedon a vehicle, the illumination provided by the LEDs preferably meets theappropriate DOT (Department of Transportation) standards. For example,if combination lamp 10 includes an amber LED lamp as first lamp 100 andis to be used on the front of a vehicle, the amber LED lamp preferablymeets the full turn compliance standards. Preferably, second lamp 200meets the DRL (Daytime Running Light) standards, which would permit itto be used as a DRL lamp, which the DOT has encouraged as enhancingsafety by elevating the visibility and noticeability of moving vehicles.Second lamp 200 need not meet the DRL standards, however, if it is beingused for other purposes, such as for a decorative use.

Depending on the desired use of combination lamp 10, the number andpositioning of LEDs per lamp 100, 200 can be varied. For example,whereas FIGS. 2 and 6 show certain embodiments of combination lamp 10,30 wherein first lamp 100, 300 has nine LEDs and second lamp 200, 400has eighteen LEDs, it is to be understood that the number of LEDs ineach lamp can vary as a matter specific to an application or a matter ofdesign choice.

In accordance with the embodiments shown in FIGS. 3 and 7, first lamp100, 300 comprises a plurality of projections 104, 304 on first lens103, 303 located above LEDs 101, 301. These projections 104, 304 arepreferably constructed and arranged to disperse light emitted from theLED below it, for example, by changing the direction of the emittedlight. See, e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,009,364 and 8,717,679, which areincorporated by reference herein in their entirety. Whereas FIGS. 3 and7 show second lamp 200, 400 without projections, it is to be understoodthat second lamp 200, 400 can also include projections, which can besimilar or different from projections 104, 304 of first lamp 100, 300.Combination lamp 10, 30 can have any combination of lamps havingprojections, and first lamp 100, 300 and second lamp 200, 400 can haveany number of projections without deviating from the scope of theinvention.

In accordance with various embodiments of the invention, as illustratedin FIG. 8, each lamp 300, 400 may have its own power connection 31, 32,such as a plug, outlet, or any mechanism for connecting to a powersource. Power connections 31, 32 can either connect to the same orseparate power sources. Accordingly, each lamp 300, 400 can be turned onor off or otherwise controlled independently of the another. Forexample, if combination lamp 30 as shown in FIGS. 5-8 is used on avehicle, wherein first lamp 300 is a stop/tail/turn lamp and second lamp400 is a back-up lamp, first lamp 300 will light up when the driver ofthe vehicle signals or stops, while second lamp 400 can remain off. Onthe other hand, when the driver backs up, first lamp 300 can remain offwhile second lamp 400 is lit. Alternatively, first lamp 300 can be aback-up lamp and second lamp 400 could be a stop/tail/turn lamp withoutdeviating from the scope of the invention.

When used in a vehicle, it can be preferable for each first lamp 300 andsecond lamp 400 to be connected to the power source via separate cables.For example, the vehicles can have two cords for each lamp aperture ormount on which a combination lamp can be mounted. However, it ispossible for one cord to be provided for each aperture/mount, whereinthe power from each cord is split with a splitter or similar component,ends of the splitter being connected to one of the first connection offirst lamp 300 or the second connection of second lamp 400. This isparticularly suitable for vehicles that were built to house only onelamp in each aperture/mount.

One potential benefit in using a combination lamp in accordance withembodiments of the invention with vehicles (e.g., work trucks producedfor use in industries such as, but not limited to, cable, plumbing,electrical, etc.) is that more light can be provided. For example,because the combination lamp 10, 30 occupies only one aperture/mountthat one conventional stop/tail/turn or back-up lamp would occupy on therear of the vehicle, one aperture/mount becomes free. One possible useof the freed aperture/mount is to mount an additional combination lamp,thus providing a total of four stop/tail/turn lamps and four back-uplamps (see, e.g., FIGS. 9 and 10) while occupying the same space as twoof each of the conventional lamps. Therefore, the illumination providedfor each action of braking, signaling to turn, backing-up, etc. can bedoubled. Alternatively, a conventional stop/tail/turn lamp or back-uplamp (or other type lamp, such as a warning lamp or work lamp) may bemounted in combination with combination lamp 10, 30 thus providing extraillumination for specific actions.

Furthermore, combination lamp 10, 30 is preferably not significantlylarger than a conventional stop/tail/turn or back-up lamp. For example,a conventional lamp for a vehicle, particularly trucks, is commonlymounted on a separate, dedicated mounting flange which is then mountedon the vehicle. Alternatively, a separate, dedicated mounting flange canbe mounted first onto a vehicle, and a lamp can be subsequently mountedthereon. Another embodiment provides a lamp that is integrally formedwith a dedicated mounting flange which is mounted on the vehicle. Thus,in accordance with the conventional lamps, both a lamp and a dedicatedmounting flange structure are required. According to various embodimentsof the present invention, the flange used for mounting can comprise oneof the lamp components of a combination lamp. For example, referring toFIG. 2, second lamp 200 can comprise a flange which is mounted on thevehicle. Therefore, no substantive structure is being added in such anembodiment (the second lamp 200 occupying approximately the same spaceas the dedicated mounting flange used with a conventional lamp), and thespace can be maximized.

In accordance with embodiments of the invention as shown in FIGS. 1-8, acombination lamp 10, 30 preferably includes at least two sets of lightsources, one of which surrounds the other. As shown, second lamp 200,400 surrounds the perimeter of first lamp 100, 300. Such an arrangementcan be particularly beneficial for use as a vehiclestop/tail/turn-back-up combination lamp (see also FIGS. 13-16 describedfurther below) or a DRL-amber combination lamp, thus maintaining theshape of the illumination consistent with standard stop/tail/turn,back-up, or amber lamps, and more particularly, when applicable,maintaining the flange-lamp arrangement consistent with conventionalflanges and lamps.

First lamp 100, 300 and second lamp 200, 400 of a combination lamp 10,30 in accordance with embodiments of the invention that are not mountedon a vehicle can also be connected to a common power source via asplitter or separate cords. Alternatively, first lamp 100, 300 andsecond lamp 200, 400 can be connected to different power sourcesentirely. Furthermore, second lamp 200, 400 need not surround first lamp100, 300, but may be positioned side-by-side, intertwined, create adesign with, etc., without deviating from the scope of the invention, asa matter specific to an application or a matter of design choice.

Another potential use of embodiments of the invention includes hallways,staircases, and the like, where it can be preferable to provide morethan one type of illumination. For example, a dim light can remain onconstantly, whereas a bright light can be turned on and off. Inaccordance with certain illustrative embodiments, second lamp 200, 400can provide a low, dim light, such as a night light, and have a lightsensor and only turns on when there is insufficient light present in thearea. The first lamp 100, 300, in contrast, can provide brighterillumination, but is configured to be turned on and off by a user. Byproviding a combination lamp, the same area can be used for twodifferent types and sources of light.

Combination LED lamps according to embodiments of the present inventioncan comprise various shapes and sizes, and further can be utilized at avariety of locations for a variety of functions without deviating fromthe scope of the invention, as a matter specific to an application or amatter of design choice. Additionally, other alterations can be made,such as, but not limited to, varying the number of LEDs, altering thetransparency of the lenses, the shape and size of the supports, number,shape and/or size of the projections, etc. as a matter specific to anapplication or a matter of design choice, without deviating from thescope of the invention.

In various embodiments of the present invention, a combination lamp 10,30 may be provided that has an appearance substantially as shown inFIGS. 1-8, but wherein the LEDs 201, 401 in the flange are higher outputLEDs (e.g., higher power, higher luminosity compared to standard LEDs),and a more intense illumination thereof can provide a separate, thirdlamp function. When LEDs 201, 401 are embodied as higher output LEDs,for example, they can provide a work lamp function as well as a back-uplamp function. The higher output LEDs can be initiated and energized bya set of wires connected to a dedicated switch (on/off). When the switchis in an “off” position, LEDs 201, 401 may function as a back-up lampproviding typical back-up illumination as described above. When theswitch is in an “on” position, the higher output may be engaged, andLEDs 201, 401 may function as work lamp providing brighter illuminationin the back of the vehicle. In some embodiments, higher output LEDs 201,401 may be mounted on an aluminum PCB, for example, to accommodate theincreased amount of heat produced.

In various other embodiments of the present invention, a combinationlamp 10, 30 may be provided that utilizes different colors for differentfunctions in the flange. With reference to FIGS. 11 and 12, for example,in various embodiments, a combination lamp 10, 30 may be provided whichincorporates an emergency warning lamp 800, 900 into the flange. FIG. 11shows an exploded view of an illustrative round combination lamp 10 withmultiple functions, and FIG. 12 shows a top plan view of an illustrativeoval combination lamp 30 with multiple functions. The combination lampof FIG. 11 is similar to the combination lamp shown in FIGS. 1-4, andthe combination lamp of FIG. 12 is similar to the combination lamp shownin FIGS. 5-8; however, a combination lamp 10, 30 as shown in FIGS. 11,12 combines at least three different lamp components in a unitaryconfiguration, and is configured such that a first portion of the LEDsof the flange comprise LEDs 201, 401 with one function (e.g., back-uplighting) while a second portion of the LEDs of the flange comprise LEDs801, 901 with a separate function (and/or color) (e.g., a dedicatedwarning lamp function). LEDs 801, 901 may be a different color (e.g.,amber) from LEDs 201, 401 (e.g., white), distinguishable through a clearlens 203, 403. The LEDs 101, 301 in the center area provide a thirdfunction (e.g., stop/tail/turn). LEDs 101, 301 may be white, covered bya colored (e.g., red) lens, or may be colored (e.g., red) LEDs coveredby either a clear or colored (e.g., red) lens. The embodiments ofcombination lamp 10, 30 shown FIGS. 11 and 12 are illustrated with eightLEDs 801 and six LEDs 901, respectively, but different numbers and/orpositions of LEDs 801, 901 on the flange can be used for the secondfunction of the flange as a matter specific to an application or amatter of design choice. See also FIGS. 21-30 described further below.

The warning lamp 800, 900 may be initiated and energized by a separate(dedicated) set of wires connected to a dedicated switch (on/off). Whenthe warning lamp 800, 900 is in use and the user decides to put thevehicle in back-up, brake (stop), or turn mode, a built-in circuit canautomatically cut off the warning function, so that the intenseillumination of the warning flashes does not negate the visibility ofthe lamp 200, 400 used for the back-up function and/or the lamp 100, 300used for the stop/tail/turn function. In some embodiments, the amber (orother color) warning light is configured to flash unless the userchooses to install a switch to employ a steady illumination. In variousembodiments, a separate set of wires can initiate the warning function.In some embodiments, where two or more combination lamps incorporatingwarning lamps are provided, an auxiliary wire can alternate between thedifferent warning lamps. For example, when the auxiliary wire isconnected, a user can sync the flashing of two or more warning lamps sothat they flash simultaneously, alternately, have different patterns offlashing, etc.

In various embodiments, a combination lamp 10, 30 may be provided whichhas an appearance substantially as in FIGS. 11, 12, but alsoincorporates a work lamp into the flange, thus providing four functions(e.g., stop/turn/tail, back-up, warning lamp, and work lamp). Forexample, the LEDs 201, 401 of the flange used for the back-up functionmay be high output LEDs, which can be initiated and energized by a setof wires connected to a dedicated switch (on/off). In these embodiments,when the switch is off, LEDs 201, 401 can provide a standard back-upfunction as described above; and when the switch is turned on, LEDs 201,401 can provide more intense lighting (e.g., for working on the side ofthe road). Warning LEDs 801, 901 have separate dedicated wiringconnected to a dedicated switch as described above.

FIGS. 13-16 show top plan, side elevational, and exploded views and anelectrical diagram of an illustrative combination lamp according tovarious embodiments of the invention. Dimensions marked are in mm. Thiscombination lamp 10 embodiment (Maxxima M85417R) is a 5.5″ round hybridcombination stop turn tail and back-up light, comprising a 4″ round redstop turn tail (S/T/T) lamp 100 and 5.5″ back-up (BU) flange 200 having12 red LEDs 101 and nine white LEDs 201, respectively, mounted onsupport 502 (PCB) with back cover/housing 505 and neoprene gasket 506with holes 511 attached. Lens 103 covering LEDs 101 may be colored(e.g., red) and may include projections 104 as described above. Lens 203covering LEDs 201 may be clear and may include projections 204 asdescribed above and holes 205 for mounting. Lens 103 and lens 203 may besecured to or integrally formed with one another. The combination lampof FIGS. 13-16 may include mounting screws 507 (see FIG. 21) and screwcaps (mounting screw covers) 508, and has a thin profile, sealedmoisture proof electronics, and polycarbonate lens and housingcomponents. Plastic screw caps/covers/inserts 508 can be pressed ontothe screw holes 511 after the combination lamp 10 is installed on thevehicle, and can make the combination lamp 10 tamper resistant. In someembodiments, screw caps 508 are configured such that they cannot beremoved once they are installed. In some embodiments, the combinationlamp of FIGS. 13-16 may be provided as a kit, including two female PL3connectors 509. In illustrative embodiments, the specifications for thecombination lamp of FIGS. 13-16 are as follows: LEDs—21 (12 Red, 9White); Voltage—12.8 VDC; Amp Draw—BU 0.2 A, Tail 20 mA, Stop 0.2 A;Dimensions—5.5″ Diameter×0.5″ Depth; Mounting—3-Hole Flange Mount (3)3/16″ holes, Hole cutouts: 1 3/16″ for cable exit; Connector—(2) PL3Female, 10″ Wire; DOT/SAE—J593, J2040, J2261.

FIGS. 17-20 show top plan, side elevational, and exploded views and anelectrical diagram of another illustrative combination lamp according tovarious embodiments of the invention. Dimensions marked are in mm. Thiscombination lamp 10 embodiment (Maxxima M85437R-WL) is a 5.5″ roundhybrid combination stop turn tail and back-up and work light, comprisinga 4″ round red stop turn tail (S/T/T) lamp 100 and 5.5″ back-up (BU)flange 200 having 12 red LEDs 101 and nine white LEDs 201, respectively,mounted on support 502 (PCB) with back cover/housing 505 and neoprenegasket 506 with holes 511 attached, where LEDs 201 are embodied ashigher output LEDs as described above. Lens 103 covering LEDs 101 may becolored (e.g., red) and may include projections 104 as described above.Lens 203 covering the higher output LEDs 201 may be clear and mayinclude projections 204 as described above and holes 205 for mounting.Lens 103 and lens 203 may be secured to or integrally formed with oneanother. The combination lamp of FIGS. 17-20 may include mounting screws507 (see FIG. 21) and screw caps (mounting screw covers) 508, and has athin profile, sealed moisture proof electronics, and polycarbonate lensand housing components. Plastic screw caps/covers/inserts 508 can bepressed onto the screw holes 511 after the combination lamp 10 isinstalled on the vehicle, and can make the combination lamp 10 tamperresistant. In some embodiments, screw caps 508 are configured such thatthey cannot be removed once they are installed. Connector leads 510(e.g., five blunt cut wires) may be color coded, for example, asfollows: red (stop/turn), brown (tail), blue (back-up), black (ground),white (work light). In illustrative embodiments, the specifications forthe combination lamp of FIGS. 17-20 are as follows: LEDs—21 (12 Red, 9White); Voltage—12.8 VDC; Amp Draw—BU 0.2 A, Tail 20 mA, Stop 0.2 A, WL1.0 A; Dimensions—5.5″ Diameter×0.5″ Depth; Mounting—3-Hole Flange Mount(3) 3/16″ holes, Hole cutouts: 1 3/16″ for cable exit; Connector—5 LeadsBlunt Cut 10″; DOT/SAE—J593, J2040, J2261. The combination lamp of FIGS.17-20 incorporates a dual function flange back-up light and work lightconfigured to provide, for example, 310 lumen back-up light/1,000 lumenwork light (WL).

FIGS. 21-26 show front perspective, top plan, bottom plan, sideelevational, and exploded views and an electrical diagram of anotherillustrative combination lamp according to various embodiments of theinvention. Dimensions marked are in mm. This combination lamp 10embodiment (Maxxima M85427R-YCL) is a 5.5″ round hybrid combination stopturn tail and back-up and flashing warning light (single color nine LEDor dual color 18 LED), comprising a 4″ round red stop turn tail (S/T/T)lamp 100 having 12 red LEDs 101, and a 5.5″ back-up (BU) flange 200/800having nine white LEDs 201 (back-up and warning) and nine amber LEDs 801(warning and turn), mounted on support 502 (PCB) with back cover/housing505 and neoprene gasket 506 with holes 511 attached. As shown, the ninewhite LEDs 201 and nine amber LEDs 801 alternate one-by-one around theflange; however, in other embodiments, LEDs 201, 801 may be provided indifferent numbers and/or arrangements/groupings around the flange (see,e.g., FIGS. 11, 12). Lens 103 covering LEDs 101 may be colored (e.g.,red) and may include projections 104 as described above. Lens 203covering LEDs 201, 801 may be clear and may have a substantially smoothexterior as shown (though alternative embodiments may includeprojections 204 as described above) and holes 205 for mounting. Lens 103and lens 203 may be secured to or integrally formed with one another.The combination lamp of FIGS. 21-26 may include mounting screws 507 andscrew caps (mounting screw covers) 508; has a thin profile, sealedmoisture proof electronics, and polycarbonate lens and housingcomponents; and is DOT FMVSS108/CMVSS1088 compliant. Plastic screwcaps/covers/inserts 508 can be pressed onto the screw holes 511 afterthe combination lamp 10 is installed on the vehicle, and can make thecombination lamp 10 tamper resistant. In some embodiments, screw caps508 are configured such that they cannot be removed once they areinstalled. Connector leads 510 (e.g., seven blunt cut wires) may becolor coded, for example, as follows: red (stop/turn), brown (tail),green (warning power), blue (back-up), black (ground), white(ALT/MODE2/turn), yellow (pattern change/SYNC). In illustrativeembodiments, the specifications for the combination lamp of FIGS. 21-26are as follows: LEDs—30 (12 Red, 9 White, 9 Amber); Voltage—12.8 VDC;Amp Draw—0.6 A Max Amp (Stop+Warn), BU 0.2 A, Tail 20 mA, Stop 0.2 A,Amber Turn 100 mA, Warn 0.4 A; Dimensions—5.5″ Diameter×0.5″ Depth;Mounting—3-Hole Flange Mount (3) 3/16″ holes, Hole cutouts: 1 3/16″ forcable exit; Connector—7 Leads Blunt Cut 10″; DOT/SAE—J593, J2040, J2261,J595. The combination lamp of FIGS. 21-26 provides an all-in-one S/T/Tand Back-Up and Dual Color Amber White Flashing Warning (SAE J595 Class1 Warning Device), which can flash amber only, white only, oramber/white dual color. An amber turn may be provided for trucks with adedicated turn wire (4-wire S/T/T circuit; see FIG. 35). FIGS. 27 and 28show the combination lamp of FIGS. 21-26 with 12 red LEDs 101 providingtail light and stop light, respectively. FIG. 29 shows the combinationlamp of FIGS. 21-26 with nine white LEDs 201 providing back-up light.FIG. 30 shows the combination lamp of FIGS. 21-26 with nine amber LEDs801 providing flashing amber warning light. In various embodiments, LEDs101 may also provide an optional red turn; LEDs 201 may also provide anoptional flashing white warning; LEDs 801 may also provide an optionalamber turn. FIG. 33 shows a schematic of the electrical diagram of FIG.26, indicating sections for input/output power management,microcontroller, red lens section for red stop/tail/turn, white LEDs inouter circle section used for back-up and warning, and amber LEDs inouter circle section used for warning and amber turn.

In various embodiments, the wiring designations for the illustrativeround hybrid combination S/T/T-BU-Warning lamp 10 of FIGS. 21-16 may be,for example, as follows: black—ground (−); brown—tail (+VDC);blue—back-up (+VDC); red—stop and turn (+VDC); white—optional amber turn(+VDC), optional warning ‘Mode 2’ (−GND); green—flashing warning (+VDC);yellow—programming (+VDC), described in further detail below. In variousembodiments, the wiring instructions may be as follows. First, determineif the vehicle has a dedicated turn signal wire or uses a common wirefor both stop light and turn signal. FIG. 34 shows 3-Wire Stop/Turn/Tailwiring (red turn signal). If the vehicle uses a common wire for bothstop light and turn signal, use the Red Turn Signal by connecting theRed Wire. FIG. 35 shows 4-Wire Stop/Turn/Tail wiring (amber turnsignal). If the vehicle has dedicated Left and Right Turn Signal wires,independent of the Stop Light, use the optional Amber Turn Signal byconnecting the White Wire. Then follow steps 1-7. Step 1—Connect Blackwire to vehicle Ground (− Negative). Step 2—Connect Brown wire tovehicle Tail Light (+12V). Step 3—Connect Red wire to vehicle Stop Light(+12V). Step 4 (Optional)—Connect White wire to vehicle Left or RightTurn Signal (+12V). Step 5—Connect Blue wire to vehicle Back-up Light(+12V). Step 6—Connect Green wire “Flashing Warning Circuit” via auser-supplied switch (+12V). Step 7—Program Warning to the desiredpattern with Yellow wire. While the Green wire is connected to +12V,Hold Yellow wire to +12V for 1 to 2 seconds to scroll to the next flashpattern (See Table 1). If on a Single-Color pattern, Hold Yellow wirefor 3 to 5 sec to toggle to the alternate color (i.e. from Amber toWhite). To reset to Pattern #1, Hold Yellow wire to +12V for 7+ seconds.FIG. 36 shows 28 illustrative flash patterns; however, in otherembodiments, different numbers and/or types of flash patterns may beprovided. In FIG. 36, an asterisk=no alternate function available, andsuperscript ‘1’=alternate between colors. Step 8—“Simultaneous Flash” or“Alternate Flash” may be selected. FIG. 37 shows warning wiringinstructions for simultaneous flash. FIG. 38 shows warning wiringinstructions for alternate flash (Group 1 will flash the set patternalternatively with Group 2). To flash all lamps synchronously, join allyellow wires together. This allows the lights to communicate with eachother. To use alternate or “wig-wag” flash, identify lamps in “Group 1”and “Group 2”; Connect White wires in “Group 1” to +12V. (In someembodiments, the Optional Amber Turn Signal may be disabled when theFlashing Warning light is on and/or activating the Back-up may disablethe Warning light. In other embodiments, the combination lamp may beconfigured to enter a different Backup/Warning mode.) Step 9(Optional)—To use the optional “Mode 2” Flashing Warning pattern, a DPDT(double-pole, double-throw) switch is needed. See the diagram in FIG.39. To access Secondary Mode, or second flash pattern, Connect Green to+12V and White to (−) Ground. While in Mode 2, use Yellow wire (+12V) toprogram the desired flash pattern (step 7). Mode 1: Leave the switchopen and select first pattern. Mode 2: Close the switch and selectsecond flash pattern. Users can toggle between the two selected flashpatterns by changing the switch position. A DPDT switch is needed to usean alternate mode of operation in Primary Mode (Mode 1). Connect Group 2separately to the other pole switch (common side). The switch other twoside should be +12V (alt) and Ground (Mode 2). For single colorpatterns, connect Yellow wires to +12 VDC (Green wire) for 3 to 5seconds to change the color.

While there have been shown and described fundamental novel features ofthe invention as applied to the preferred and illustrative embodimentsthereof, it will be understood that omissions and substitutions andchanges in the form and details of the disclosed invention may be madeby those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of theinvention. Moreover, as is readily apparent, numerous modifications andchanges may readily occur to those skilled in the art. For example,various features and structures of the different embodiments discussedherein may be combined and interchanged. Hence, it is not desired tolimit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown anddescribed and, accordingly, all suitable modification equivalents may beresorted to falling within the scope of the invention as claimed. It isthe intention, therefore, to be limited only as indicated by the scopeof the claims appended hereto.

1. A combination LED lamp assembly comprising: a first lamp in an innerportion of the assembly, having one or more first LEDs and a first powerinterface; and a flange at least partially surrounding the first lamp,the flange including a second lamp having one or more second LEDs and asecond power interface and a third lamp having one or more third LEDsand a third power interface coupled to a switch, wherein the one or morethird LEDs are amber LEDs configured to provide an amber warning lampfunction when the switch coupled to the third power interface is turnedon.
 2. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the first lamp is astop/turn/tail lamp and the second lamp is a back-up lamp.
 3. Theassembly of claim 2, wherein the second lamp is further configured toprovide a white warning lamp function when the switch coupled to thethird power interface is turned on.
 4. The assembly of claim 2, whereinthe third lamp is further configured to provide an amber turn light. 5.The assembly of claim 1, wherein the assembly is configured to bemounted on a vehicle.
 6. The assembly of claim 5, wherein the flangeincludes a plurality of holes and the assembly is configured to bemounted on the vehicle via the holes.
 7. The assembly of claim 1,wherein the first, second, and third lamps are connected to a commonpower source.
 8. A combination LED lamp assembly comprising: a firstlamp in an inner portion of the assembly, having one or more first LEDsand a first power interface; and a flange at least partially surroundingthe first lamp, the flange including a second lamp having one or moresecond LEDs and a second power interface coupled to a switch, whereinthe first lamp is a stop/turn/tail lamp and the second lamp is a back-uplamp and a work lamp, wherein the one or more second LEDs are highoutput LEDs configured to provide the work lamp function when the switchcoupled to the second power interface is turned on.
 9. The assembly ofclaim 8, wherein the second lamp is configured to provide a light outputof about 310 lm when operated as a back-up lamp and about 1,000 lm whenoperated as a work lamp.
 10. The assembly of claim 8, wherein theassembly is configured to be mounted on a vehicle.
 11. The assembly ofclaim 10, wherein the flange includes a plurality of holes and theassembly is configured to be mounted on the vehicle via the holes. 12.The assembly of claim 8, wherein the first and second lamps areconnected to a common power source.
 13. The assembly of claim 3, furthercomprising a connector wire coupled to the switch, the connector wireconfigured to select a flash pattern from a plurality of flash patternswhen the switch is turned on.
 14. The assembly of claim 13, wherein theplurality of flash patterns comprise dual color flash patterns andsingle color flash patterns.
 15. The assembly of claim 14, wherein whena single color flash pattern is selected, the connector wire is furtherconfigured to toggle to an alternate color.